Composition and method for improving, altering, and treating teeth

ABSTRACT

A composition and method for administering a treatment agent to a tooth, such as fluoride to improve the tooth&#39;s resistance to dental caries with a composition which can be selectively removed, the composition comprising a lac based compound with a treatment agent such as fluoride for applying to a tooth, and a method including selecting the color to be applied, preparing the colorized compound with the treatment agent to be applied to a tooth, exposing the tooth to be covered, applying the treatment containing a colorized compound to the enamel surface of the tooth, and allowing the compound to dry on the tooth, and selectively removing the compound from the tooth. Stencil apparatus can be used to create a design on the tooth using a covering compound.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. applicationSer. No. 09/791,204 filed on Feb. 22, 2001 which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/054,898, filed onApr. 3, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,036,494.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of compositions whichmay be applied to a tooth and methods for applying a composition to atooth to alter the appearance thereof or provide a treatment to thetooth.

[0004] 2. Brief Description of the Prior Art

[0005] Many procedures are done to improve the appearance of teeth.Teeth are filled to replace dentin and enamel invaded by bacteria, andcan be capped to replicate a removed or abraded portion of a tooth.

[0006] The teeth of individuals widely vary in their appearance andshape. This is due to the genetic make-up of the individual, but canalso be affected by age, and the degree of contact with various foodsand medications, both those superficially contacting the teeth and fromthe internal effects of the medication. The teeth of some individualsexhibit a yellow appearance while those of others may be whiter. Whileaging is often considered a “natural” cause of tooth discoloration,other factors commonly attributed to tooth discoloration can includechemical exposure to tannins, which are found in red wines, and brewedbeverages such as coffees and teas. Additional discoloring chemicalsinclude those not naturally occurring in foods, but rather, manufacturedor synthesized compounds, such as, for example, the compounds found inmedications, like antibiotics, including tetracycline and otherpharmaceuticals. The common practice of using doses of tetracycline tocure facial, acne blemishes has been known to contribute to thediscoloration of teeth. Aside from these chemicals, even excess brushingcan create discoloration by repeated contact with fluoride compoundscommonly present in most toothpastes.

[0007] Many have attempted to confront the problem of toothdiscoloration by proposing various solutions to whiten the teeth. Onesuch method of tooth whitening involves the bonding of veneers onto thebuccal or labial surfaces of a tooth. The veneer is usually constructedand applied by a dentist using dental bonding techniques to attach it tothe tooth. Various veneers have been described in several U.S. Patents,see, e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 4,992,049 “Method for Applying a Veneer Facingto a Tooth”; U.S. Pat. No. 4,822,279 “Article for Cosmetic Restorationof Anterior Teeth” (which uses a glazed porcelain labial veneer); U.S.Pat. No. 4,682,950 “Device and Method of Bonding and Veneering DentalMaterial to a Tooth” (syringing composite material to a tooth surfacewhich has been etched and coated with a bonding material); U.S. Pat. No.4,473,353 “Method for Cosmetic Restoration of Anterior Teeth” (wherein aglazed porcelain veneer is bonded to a patient's tooth); and U.S. Pat.No. 4,433,959 “Composite Laminate Dental Veneer Containing ColorSystems” (a veneer which is molded and then attached to the labialenamel surfaces of teeth).

[0008] Other attempts to whiten teeth are also known to includebleaching the teeth. Often the bleach is applied in the form of hydrogenperoxide, which can be obtained in drug stores by consumers. Because ofthe delicacy of applying hydrogen peroxide in one's mouth, some dentistscarry out the procedure in their offices, using a stronger peroxide thancan be purchased by the consumer. There are even pastes, sold over thecounter, to the consumers which claim to whiten teeth. Often ordinarytoothpastes make this claim, but increasingly appearing in themarketplace for purchase by consumers are pastes with the chemicalcompound sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), which may also containperoxide. While chemical bleaching of teeth has been done to providewhiter looking teeth, with its use there exists danger to the enamel ofthe teeth, especially if excessive exposure to chemical bleaches occurs.Further, chemical bleaching is understood in many cases to requiremultiple applications, and, hence, repeated use of the chemical. Evenwhen applied by a dentist, precautions may be taken to prevent peroxidesolution from contacting the patient's gums, which if otherwise allowedto come into contact therewith can be painful and cause damage to thegums. In cases of certain stains, bleaching may not be effective, andthe stain may remain.

[0009] There are even procedures involving abrasion of the tooth enamelto present a smooth surface which is lighter in appearance than thestained surface removed. This has limitations as to the number of timesit can be done.

[0010] Furthermore, abrading or bleaching teeth can have deleteriousside effects, including increased sensitivity of the treated tooth totemperature, i.e. especially when hot and cold foods and drinks areconsumed. This effect may subside within time, but often the need torepeat bleaching procedures regularly, gives rise to a period of timewithin which the treated tooth can be hypersensitive.

[0011] There are some prior art whitening methods which require etchingsteps that are carried out with phosphoric acids. The use of phosphoricacid is generally done by a dentist under controlled conditions, forexample, in the dentist's office. Caustic acid etchants have beenrecognized to be corrosive to the soft tissues of the mouth. Forexample, ortho-phosphoric acid, in some venues, must be transportedpursuant to specified requirements and restrictions. In addition, thelong term physiological effects of acid etching, which are generallyunknown, have led practitioners to question certain acid etching uses inthe field of dentistry. See e.g. M. G. Buonocore, “The Challenge ofBonding to Dentin”, The Acid Etch Technique, L. M. Silverstone and I. L.Dogon, Eds., Proceedings of the International Symposium at St. Moritz,Switzerland, Dec. 16-18, 1974, North Central Publishing Co. (St. Paul,1975). See also, U.S. Pat. No. 5,304,585, which raises these concerns,the complete disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference;and see Akira Komori, and Haruo Ishikawa, “Evaluation of aResin-Reinforced Glass Ionomer Cement for Use as an Orthodontic BondingAgent,” The Angle Orthodontist, Vol. 67 No. 3, 1997, the completedisclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference. Furtherattempts to whiten teeth are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,032,627 “ToothWhitening Cosmetic Composition”; U.S. Pat. No. 4,097,994 “DentalRestorative Composition Containing Oligomeric Bis-GMA Resin andMichler's Ketone”; U.S. Pat. No. 4,141,144 “Dental Material and Methodfor Controlling Tooth Lustre”; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,512,743 “Method forMasking Discoloration on Teeth.” U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,512,743 and 4,141,144,each use phosphoric acid application to the tooth in their treatments.U.S. Pat. No. 4,097,994 discloses a photocurable compound, which is usedwith a specific ultraviolet sensitizer and a peroxide catalyst to curethe compound. Furthermore, phosphoric acid etching generally disposesgrooves in the tooth enamel in the nature of about 50 to 60 μm. Thisorder of etching is visible and is noticed in the form of a dull toothsurface.

[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 4,032,627, referenced above, discloses the use ofan alcohol-soluble composition to be applied to the surface of a toothto whiten the tooth's appearance. This composition is suggested to beapplied by the user. However, although this disclosure attempts toprovide an extended wearing time for its compound, the composition isreadily worn off by the abrasive action of food eaten after the compoundis applied to the teeth, with certain, more abrasive, harder, foodscausing faster wear of the composition from the tooth than other, softerfoods.

[0013] The human body relies upon hydroxyapatite as the principalcrystal for all calcified tissue. Hydroxyapatite is also found in teeth.Fluoride ion reacts with the hydroxyapatite in teeth. During theformation of teeth, generally in children, fluoride is known to improvethe tooth's resistance to dental caries by reacting with thehydroxyapatite to form a more caries-resistant tooth. The reaction ofhydroxyapatite with fluoride results in the formation of fluorapatite.The reaction equation is set forth below:

Ca₁₀(PO₄)₆(OH)₂+2F⁻ - - - >Ca₁₀(PO₄)₆F₂+2OH³¹

[0014] While fluoride deposition may occur while teeth are being formed,before teeth appear in a child's mouth, low levels of fluoride in thetissue fluids are incorporated into the enamel crystals. Fluoridedeposition continues in the enamel, and once the teeth erupt from thegums and become exposed in a child's mouth, the surface enamel can takeup fluoride from sources such as drinking water (if fluoridated) andfood.

[0015] Treatment agents such as fluoride are applied to teeth in amedical office under the supervision of medical personnel such as adentist. Fluoride can be dangerous if mishandled or ingested in excessquantities. Dental applications have comprised inserting a mouth piecein a patient's mouth and filling the mouth piece with a fluoridecontaining liquid which contacts the patient's teeth during the time inwhich the mouth piece remains inserted. This procedure is carried out bya dentist, is time consuming and can be uncomfortable for the patient.Also, teeth may not be fully covered due to the level which themouthpiece can hold. While commercially available consumer products suchas tooth pastes and rinses which contain fluoride have been provided forsale to the consumer directly, the amount of time that the fluoridecontaining composition is actually in contact with the teeth is minimal.This is purposefully done so as to avoid potentially harmful effects offluoride poisoning. Although, fluoride is a known substance which isbeneficial to teeth when topically applied to the tooth's surface in aknown amount, fluoride can be toxic, and in certain doses, even fatal. Aneed therefore exists to provide fluoride in a beneficial amount wherethe fluoride application is controlled and the possibility of fluoridepoisoning is reduced. It is desirable to provide a composition andmethod for covering a tooth, to appear white or colorized, whichcontains fluoride and can be selectively applied and removed by a useror non-medical personnel without harming the tooth or the individualwearer

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] A novel composition and method for improving or altering theappearance of teeth is provided by the present invention, where anindividual, in his or her own home, a doctor's office, or even anon-medical office, can apply a compound to his or her teeth to alterthe tooth by covering the tooth with a composition to alter theappearance of the tooth, such as by colorizing the tooth and/or applyinga design or indicia on the tooth. A treatment agent may also beadministered to the tooth with the composition, and a method is providedfor administering a treatment agent to teeth. The present method can beused to colorize and/or treat teeth, and may even be done in thepresence of existing saliva which may be present on the tooth. Themethod provides a removable coating which may comprise a colorized ornon-colorized coating which can be removed and replaced with othercolorized coatings, or no further coatings, at the user's discretion.Expensive or dangerous drying apparatus are not required. Further, thecomposition of the present invention may be applied with or without anetching step, thereby avoiding the hazards inherent to use of causticacid etchants, such as phosphoric and phosphonic acids. Moreover, whenan individual's teeth, in accordance with the present method, requirepre-treatment prior to application of the covering compound, theapplication of a naturally occurring substance can be used to facilitateadhesion. The substance can be lemon juice or lime juice, which unlikecaustic acids, contains citric acid, which can be purchased by theconsumer user of the covering compound which is to be applied by thepresent method. In a proposed alternate embodiment of the invention,polyacrylic acid is applied to the tooth surface prior to contact withthe covering compound.

[0017] The present invention also provides a novel composition andmethod for temporarily changing the color of a tooth on which thetreatment is being applied.

[0018] A palette system may be provided wherein a user or wearer canselect a color from one, or a combination of one or more, colorizingcompounds. The selected or created color can then be incorporated withthe other steps of the present method to provide a unique appearance toa tooth. The present method permits the user to mix his or her owncolors or to select a color from one or more prepared provided colors.In the case where a treatment agent is present in the compound to beapplied to the tooth, the color corresponds to the area of the toothbeing treated.

[0019] A masking material, which preferably may comprise a film, may beapplied onto the surface of a tooth to temporarily remain thereon sothat the covering compound can be applied over the stencil to create adesign or other indicia on the tooth.

[0020] The composition is a removable compound. Preferably, thecomposition includes a lac material, a colorant, a polysaccharide orphospholipid compound or both, and a solvent such as ethanol. Lac, thenatural resinous substance excreted by an insect, Laccifer Lacca, hasbeen used in dentistry mainly for the construction of special trays andbases for wax rims when recording jaw relationships. (See A. Azucca, R.Huggett, and A. Harrison, “The Production of Shellac and its General andDental Uses: A review.” Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 1993, vol. 20,pp. 393-400, the complete disclosure of which is herein incorporated byreference; and I. Klineberg and R. Earnshaw, “Physical Properties ofShellac Baseplate Materials.” Australian Dental Journal, October, 1967,vol. 12 no. 5, pp. 468-475.) Another use of shellac in dentistryincludes treatment of a cavity with a hydrophilic shellac film placementof a polystyrene liner. (See M. Blixt and P. Coli, “The Influence ofLining Techniques on the Marginal Seals of Class 11 Composite ResinRestorations” Quintessence International, vol. 24, no. 3, 1993). Shellachas also been prepared and used in dentistry for the use of a beadadhesive for securing a composite resin veneer cast restoration. (See C.Lee, H. Pierpont, and E. Strickler, “The Effect of Bead AttachmentSystems on Casting Patterns and Resultant Tensile Bond Strength ofComposite Resin Veneer Cast Restorations”, The Journal of ProstheticDentistry, November, 1991, vol. 66, no. 5, pp. 623-630.)

[0021] In the embodiment where a treatment agent is present, thetreatment agent preferably comprises fluoride or a fluoride containingcompound which is mixed together with the lac resin.

[0022] It is an object of the present invention to provide a novelcomposition and method for improving the appearance and character ofteeth.

[0023] It is a further object of the present invention to provide acomposition and a method that can be useful for whitening teeth toimprove or alter their appearance.

[0024] It is a further object of the present invention to improve oralter the appearance of teeth by covering stains or discolorations on atooth by matching a colorized compound to an individual's teeth andapplying the colorized compound containing the treatment agent on thesurface of said stained or discolored teeth.

[0025] A further object of the present invention is to improve theappearance of a tooth by applying a colored or shaded composition to thetooth.

[0026] A further object of the present method is to change theappearance of a tooth by applying a colored or shaded compositioncontaining a treatment agent to the tooth.

[0027] A further object of the present method is to match the appearanceof a tooth to surrounding or adjacent teeth by applying a colored orshaded composition.

[0028] A further object of the present invention is to coordinate colorsof a tooth with other health and beauty aids by applying a colorizingcompound to a tooth.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to provide a methodfor applying a compound containing a treatment agent to a tooth whichcan remain on the tooth during eating and other activity, and can beremoved at the wearer's discretion, to leave the tooth as it appearedbefore the application of the compound.

[0030] A further object of the present invention is to provide a novelmethod of altering the appearance of a tooth which includes applying acompound to the tooth and selectively removing the compound from thetooth.

[0031] A further object of the present invention is to provide a methodfor altering the appearance of a tooth which can be repeated by thewearer, to change the appearance of a tooth, on a regular basis if thewearer desires, without having damaging effects on the tooth enamel.

[0032] Another object of the present invention is to provide a methodwhich includes a color matching system wherein the user mixes componentsto colorize the composition containing a treatment agent to be appliedto the tooth to the desired hue or color, which can be a tooth color ora non-tooth color.

[0033] It is another object of the present invention to accomplish theabove objects by repeating application and removal of the compoundcontaining a treatment agent on a tooth for different colors as the userdetermines and selects.

[0034] Another object of the present invention is to provide a toothcovering composition which can be selectively colorized, applied andremoved by a user.

[0035] It is a further object of the present invention to provide acomposition and a method that can be useful for delivering a treatmentagent.

[0036] Another object of the present invention is to accomplish any ofthe above objects using a stencil to create a design or other indicia ona tooth.

[0037] Another object of the present invention is to provide a methodand components for applying a design or other indicia to a tooth.

[0038] Another object of the present invention is to provide a compoundwhich may be selectively removed from the tooth by a forced stream ofwater.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The present invention provides a method for applying a compoundto a tooth to alter the appearance of the tooth. The altered appearancecan be the removal of stains or discoloration caused by disease,chemical exposure or aging, or can be the application of a color (i.e.red, blue, green, etc.) to the tooth. The composition when applied to atooth changes the appearance of the tooth, in particular, the color ofthe tooth. In an alternate embodiment, the compound may contain atreatment agent which may be applied with the colored composition.Generally the enamel of teeth is bound to tannins and other chemicalswhich remain on the enamel, in the form of a stain, which cannot beremoved by brushing.

[0040] The present invention provides a composition which can beselectively applied to a tooth surface to provide a cosmetic alterationof the tooth, specifically, whitening or colorizing the tooth, andalternately delivering a treatment agent to the tooth. The compound,which is a lac based compound, preferably can be provided, or can bemixed by the user, to colorize the tooth a tooth colored shade, or oneor more of a variety of colors (i.e. red, blue, green, etc.). Thepresent method provides for the application of a lac based compound tothe surface of a tooth to cover discolorings which are present on thetooth, or to provide a colorization of the tooth.

[0041] In the embodiment where a treatment agent is present in thecomposition, the treatment agent can comprise an element or a compoundwhich has a benefit to the tooth. Fluoride is a preferred treatmentagent is fluoride which can be delivered to the tooth through thecontact of the lac based compound containing the treatment agent withthe tooth. Fluoride has been known to have beneficial properties,particularly, in reducing the dental carries.

[0042] A pigment compound is used to regulate the color of the toothwhich is to be covered with the covering compound. For example, onepigment which can be used is titanium dioxide, which can yield a whiteor tooth colored shade. Other suitable pigments can be used, eitherseparately, or combined to form desired shades.

[0043] The pigment can be used to indicate that the tooth has beencovered with the fluoride containing compound. The coloring can also beprovided to encourage children, who are particularly suitable for usingfluoride, to utilize the composition to obtain the benefits of fluorideon their teeth.

[0044] The covering compound to be applied by the present methodcomprises an opaque material which masks the tooth surface. Preferably,the covering compound comprises a lac based compound.

[0045] The compound is prepared by dissolving a lac material into asolvent. The solvent used for the example below is ethanol (99% ethylalcohol). The compound is preferably a liquid form which is fluid andcan be painted on the surface of a tooth.

[0046] Shellac is a natural raw material, and is a complex resincomprising a material exuded from a scale insect. The insects whichproduce the lac are Laccifer lacca. One specific insect is a red lac bug(tachardia lacca), a member of the Coccidae group, commonly known asscale insects. Several trees of the Fabaceae (Butea, Cajanus, Acacia),Rhamnaceae (Zizyphus), Sapindaceae (Schleicheria) are the home to lacinsects.

[0047] A reddish transparent material, referred to as “seed lac” isproduced by the insects. Most harvesting of seed lac is done in India.The seed lac is generally adhered to sticks, which are collected. Thelac deposits on the sticks are then stone ground and sifted and immersedin water where they are ground further by stomping or pulverizing.Unwanted materials, such as impurities rise to the surface where theycan be easily collected for removal. The lac is then dried, and roastedin a mesh encapsulating material, after which it is strained through themesh as a flowable, viscous substance to form a thin sheet. The sheet ispermitted to cool and then broken down into flakes (sometimes referredto as shellac). Thereafter, the material is commercially processed orsold. It is these flakes that are utilized in the present invention. Forexample, the seed lac can be mixed with mineral spirits for use as afurniture polish or finish, pharmaceuticals, food industry.

[0048] A lac resin generally is a flake composition having a white,light brown, amber or yellowish color. Lac resins, although processedfrom a naturally occurring insect secretion, are generally commerciallyavailable.

[0049] A preferred lac resin for use in the present invention is thedewaxed orange flake type. This lac compound exhibits a light browncolor and has the following characteristics: Acid No. 65-80 Ash Max 0.3%Melting Range 65-85° C. Moisture Max 2.0% Saponification No. 190-230 WaxMax 0.2% Thermal Properties of Shellac Specific Heat @ 10° C.-40⁻C.0.36-0.38 cal/g/° C. Thermal Conductivity @ 35° C. 2.42 mW/cm/° C.Coefficient of Cubical Expansion 2.73 × 10⁻⁴/° C. @ less than 45° C.Coefficient of Cubical Expansion 3.10 × 10⁻⁴ cm/° C. @ above 45° C.Polymerization Time @ 150° C. 40-50 minutes Flow or Fluidity byWESTINGHOUSE Method 60-80 seconds Softening Point 55-65° C. MeltingPoint 65-75° C.

[0050] The above data is for a lac resin sold as “Dewaxed Orange FlakeShellac” which was used in the examples that follow. Although the abovedata represents average properties for the lac used, it is understoodthat these can vary somewhat since the lac product is a naturalsecretion of an insect (before being processed into lac flakes).

[0051] The composition may further include a polysaccharide. A widevariety of polysaccharides may be useful herein. Polysaccharidesgenerally are compounds containing a backbone of repeating sugar (i.e.carbohydrates) units. Examples of polysaccharides include those selectedfrom the group consisting of cellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionate carboxylate,hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment, ethylcellulosemay be present in a range of from about up to about 4.75% by weight ofthe composition, with a particularly preferred range of ethylcellulosebeing from about 4.25% to about 4.4%.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment of the coating composition, aphospholipid, such as lecithin and derivatives thereof, may comprise acomponent of the coating composition. In a preferred embodiment,lecithin may be present is a range of from about up to 1.5% by weight ofthe composition, with a particularly preferred range of lecithin beingfrom about 0.09% to about 1.0%.

[0053] A preferred embodiment of the coating composition may compriseethylcellulose and lecithin along with the lac resin and solvent tofacilitate the appearance of the composition when it is applied to atooth. Preferably, a pigment is added, and a brightener, such as, forexample, mica may also be added.

[0054] In an alternate embodiment of the composition, fluoride or afluoride-containing compound may be added to the covering composition tobe applied therewith to a tooth. Fluoride may be added in a form whichcan be mixed with the lac resin composition. For example, sodiumfluoride may be used to provide the fluoride needed for the presentcomposition. Fluoride may be added so that the fluoride is present inthe composition in an amount medically significant to provide a benefitto the tooth without harming the tooth. For example, fluoride present inthe composition in preferred amounts of from about 0.1% to about 5% byweight can provide a benefit to the tooth. Lesser amounts may alsoprovide a benefit to the tooth. In a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, fluoride is added in amount of about 0.2% by weight.Preferably, the fluoride is added to obtain a concentration of about0.2% fluoride by weight of the composition.

[0055] The covering compound may be applied to the teeth by any suitableapplicator, including in a preferred manner by painting it onto thetooth surface with a brush. This enables the composition to be evenlydistributed to cover the entire tooth, and furthermore, without anexcessive buildup or absence of material in one spot of the tooth.Alternately an aerosol suspension can be used to apply the coveringcompound to the tooth. For example, a small tube can be used throughwhich the aerosol can be propelled for application onto the tooth. Thisfacilitates even distribution of the covering compound on the toothsurface and avoidance of coverage on gums, skin and other non-toothsurfaces.

[0056] The present invention may provide palette means for controllingthe colorizing of the tooth. The palette means preferably comprises aplurality of pigments which are present in individual quantities foradding to the covering composition to be applied to the tooth. Thepalette means preferably is provided with a plurality of pigment meanswhich contain tooth-colored pigments which can be matched to theindividual user's tooth color. In addition, the palette means cancontain colorful shades, such as, for example, blue, pink, pastelcolors, or any other color which is supplied in the form of a pigmentcompound which can be mixed with the base covering compound and then beapplied to the tooth by painting on the tooth.

[0057] The method can be carried out, for example, by providing a trayhaving a series of compartments containing tooth-colored pigmentsarranged in one row and a series of colorizing pigments in other rows. Alarger compartment can be provided for the base compound or components.The compartments can have resealable covers which can be opened andclosed by the user to remove a pigment or compound as needed. A mixingarea can also be provided and can also have a cover.

[0058] Alternately, it is possible to apply the lac-based coveringcompound on the tooth, and then mix the color or pigment compound withthe lac compound directly on the tooth. This may be done, for example,to facilitate approximating the shade of adjacent teeth.

[0059] In some circumstances, it may be desirable to etch a toothsurface to provide microscopic pits for facilitating adhesion of acompound to be applied thereto. Etching provides an increased surfacearea of the tooth. However, the present method also desires removabilityof the temporary tooth coating. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, the teeth of an individual can be pretreated with citricacid, of the same weakness of that concentration contained in lemonjuice. This facilitates the adherence of the covering compound on thetooth's surface. The citric acid prepares the surface of the tooth toreceive the compound which is to be painted on the tooth.

[0060] The method contemplates application of the tooth enhancingcomposition by an individual user or wearer having no special trainingor knowledge in dentistry. In this case, lemon juice can be used, sinceit will be easily obtained by the user. Alternately, citric acidsolutions can be prepared or provided having the same generalconcentration as citric acid in lemon juice. By the use of the etchingstep, very small grooves or pits are formed on the tooth surface, whichare approximately 5 to 10 μm or less. This enables the wearer of thecompound to restore a treated tooth to its original appearance whendesired by removing the covering compound. Another acid proposed for usewith the compound of the present invention, for tooth preparation ispolyacrylic acid.

[0061] Alternately, it is proposed that the covering compound, forexample, can be prepared by taking a lac based composition, such as ofthe type described in Examples 1 or 2, comprising a 1 g. lac/10 mlethanol solution, or in Examples 3 or 4, and providing an amount of apigment compound which becomes the base pigment. To this pigmented basecompound, the user can customize the color with the colorizing means, byselecting and combining pigment items and admixing the selected pigmentitems with the base compound. In addition, other elements, such asreflective means can be admixed as well to provide additional uniquealteration of the tooth. For example, polymer particles, such asglitter, can be added to provide a sparkle effect to the tooth.

[0062] A colorizing pigment can be supplied in the form of a modifiedfood starch or other color additive. The pigment can be supplied withthe lac compound, or can be provided separately to be admixed by theuser with the lac compound. The lac compound can be supplied to the userwith a pigment to exhibit a tooth-colored shade, and can even be furthermixed for colonization by the user.

[0063] The colorizing means of the present invention preferably cancomprise a color additive, such as, for example, a dye, pigment orsubstance that can impart color when added or applied to the laccompound. Those particularly preferred include color additives of thetype commonly used with a food, drug, cosmetic or in connection with thehuman body, especially color additives permitted for use in foods whichare classified as “certifiable” or “exempt from certification.” Forexample, the colorizing compound employed with the present method caninclude the exempt pigments, such as, for example, those listed below,derived from natural sources such as vegetables, minerals or animals,and man-made counterparts of natural derivatives. In addition, FDAcertified pigments, such as, for example, the nine additives listedbelow can also be used.

Certified Color Additives

[0064] FD&C Blue No. 1 (Dye and Lake)

[0065] FD&C Blue No. 2 (Dye and Lake)

[0066] FD&C Green No. 3 (Dye and Lake)

[0067] FD&C Red No. 3 (Dye)

[0068] FD&C Red No. 40 (Dye and Lake)

[0069] FD&C Yellow No. 5 (Dye and Lake)

[0070] FD&C Yellow No. 6 (Dye and Lake)

[0071] Orange B

[0072] Citrus Red No. 2

Colors Exempt from Certification

[0073] Annatto extract

[0074] B-Apo-8′-carotenal

[0075] Beta-carotene

[0076] Beet powder

[0077] Canthaxanthin

[0078] Caramel color

[0079] Carrot oil

[0080] Cochineal extract (carmine)

[0081] Cottonseed flour, toasted partially defatted, cooked

[0082] Ferrous gluconate

[0083] Fruit juice

[0084] Grape color extract

[0085] Grape skin extract (enocianina)

[0086] Paprika

[0087] Paprika oleoresin

[0088] Riboflavin

[0089] Saffron

[0090] Titanium dioxide

[0091] Turmeric

[0092] Turmeric oleoresin

[0093] Vegetable juice

[0094] The form of the additive for use in the present inventionpreferably includes dye form additives, but may also include lake formswhich are compatible with the lac based covering composition. Watersoluble dyes, provided in the form of powders, granules, liquids orother special-purpose forms can be used in accordance with the presentmethod. Lakes, the water insoluble form of the dye, are generally usedfor coloring products which do not contain adequate moisture to dissolvethe dyes. For example, if a suspension of color is to be used, a lakeform additive can be employed. The color additive provided in the formof a lake may, for example, be used with other tooth appearanceenhancing means such as glitter particles.

[0095] A luminescent compound may be added to provide a luminescenteffect when the compound is applied to a tooth. The luminescent compoundmay, for example, phosphoresce or fluoresce.

[0096] The present method includes the step of painting the compound ona tooth which is in its in vivo environment and an intermediary is notrequired. The naturally occurring saliva may be present on the tooth,and the compound can be applied with the saliva being present.Alternately, the method can include applying the compound to a tooth byspraying. For example, a compressed gas propellant, such as an aerosol,can be utilized to provide delivery of the covering compound to thetooth.

[0097] The selected compound is painted on the tooth and permitted toharden. The hardening of the compound occurs within about two to threeminutes, wherein the alcohol dries or evaporates and the solubilized laccomposition polymerizes. A layer is then formed by the compound coveringthe tooth surface on which it was applied, and becomes fixed on thetooth. The tooth thereby exhibits a new appearance, attributable to thecompound.

[0098] The compound exhibits permanence and withstands normal buccalfunctions such as, for example, brushing, eating, chewing, contactingfoods and beverages, and other functions carried out with one's teeth.During this time, the treatment agent can remain in contact with thetooth. The method applies a covering on the tooth which maintains auniform appearance and is further resistant to staining. In addition,the covering protects the tooth against further staining and contactwith bacteria and chemicals. The method applies a thin coating to thetooth which does not interrupt the user's normal mouth functions, anddoes not feel uncomfortable to a user.

[0099] The method further includes selectively removing the coating. Thecoating is removably provided on the tooth and can be removed from thetooth at the user's discretion. For example, if a user desires to changethe color of the coated tooth, and, for example, apply a differentcolor, then the first coating is removed to expose the original toothsurfaces again. A second or next coating can then be applied to thetooth to change the color. Removing preferably includes the step ofusing a pressurized stream of water, which can be done with acommercially available appliance, such as, for example, a WATER PIK®.

[0100] Alternately, it is proposed that a solvent may be used to removethe tooth coating. Preferably, the solvent comprises a composition whichthe user can readily obtain, or which can be supplied to the individual,non-medical personnel user. Furthermore, it is conceivable thatcompatible solvents can be used for removing the covering compound froma tooth by softening or dissolving the compound or its bonds. Thesolvent, for example, can be a material which may break up bonds betweenthe lac polymerization and/or invade a bond formed between the compoundand the tooth surface. The removal step wherein a solvent is used, canbe accomplished by swabbing the solvent onto the tooth coating or aroundthe edges thereof with a cotton swab. The coating is then loosened andcan be more easily removed, or can even be dissolved.

[0101] Removal of the covering coating from the tooth then displays theoriginal surface of the underlying tooth which had been covered by thecoating.

[0102] Stenciling means is provided to facilitate making a design orother indicia on the tooth surface. The stenciling means includes amasking material, which preferably, may comprise a film which can betemporarily applied onto the surface of a tooth. The stenciling meanscan comprise a vinyl, adhesive-backed tape with a design or indicia cutinto the tape. For example, the tape may be provided so that the usercan customize the design by cutting his or her own design into the tape.Alternately, the tape may be provided with a plurality of precut designswhich the user may select. The tape may be applied on a single tooth ormay be applied as a strip to cover multiple teeth. The method ofapplying a design or other indicia to a tooth according to the presentinvention is carried out by selecting a design or indicia by choosing aparticular tape or portion thereof. The method of applying the maskingmeans can comprise activating the adhesive, for example, removing aremovable peel-off release paper to expose the adhesive, and thenapplying the tape over the tooth with the design or indicia portion ofthe tape positioned over the area of the tooth on which the design is tobe displayed. The vinyl tape contains a cut-out of the design such thatwhen placed on the tooth, portions of the tooth are masked while otherportions of the tooth are accessible. The accessible portions of thetooth are bound by the tape so that material, such as the coveringcompound of the present invention is applied over the vinyl tape, andmainly in the cut out area. The covering compound is permitted to dry,which can take up to about 1 minute, or perhaps longer, and the taperemoved from the tooth to yield the design or indicia on the tooth. Theexcess covering compound which has been painted on the tape is removedwith the tape.

[0103] The method may also comprise the step of cutting a design intothe tape. It will be understood that computer images may be transferredto thin films of vinyl or other material which can be cut and used as amask. In addition, alternately, the method can include the steps ofapplying a first color covering compound to certain portions of thedesign, and a second colored covering compound to other areas. Oralternately, a covering compound having one color can be stenciled ontothe tooth, and a covering compound of a second color is applied over thefirst colored compound. Additional color covering compounds may also beemployed.

[0104] The indicia may comprise any design, image, letter, number or thelike. The indicia can also be created by the user to comprise a uniquedesign.

[0105] In another example, the tape is placed on a strip and designs areprovided to be spaced apart so that multiple teeth can be painted at thesame time.

[0106] The following is an example of the lac based covering compoundand the method of the present invention, as carried out on human teethin vivo. The dewaxed orange flake lac resin is used as indicated inExamples 1 and 2, below, to formulate a covering compound forcosmetically altering the appearance of a tooth, although it isconceivable that other lac resins, such as white lac, can also be usedconsistent with the scope of the present invention. While ethanol isdescribed as a preferred solvent, it will be understood that an ethanolsolution of less than 99% pure ethanol may be utilized; however, thedrying times may be affected by the addition of alternate solvents.

[0107] Preferably, bleached lac resin may be used, such as, for example,refined bleached food grade (USP) dewaxed lac, NF. The bleached dewaxedlac resin was commercially prepared by dissolving bleached dewaxed lacresin in specially denatured alcohol 45/200 proof, to provide a clearsolution containing approximately 35.3% plus or minus 1% (by weight) ofsolids and having a specific gravity of 0.911 plus or minus 0.01% g/cctypical. Therefore, refined bleached food grade dewaxed lac resin can beprepared by dissolving it in ethanol, or specially denatured alcoholsuch as SDA 45/200. Examples 3 and 4 relate to the bleached food gradedewaxed lac resin (obtained commercially from Mantrose-Haeuser Company)employed to prepare the covering compound.

[0108] A treatment agent, such as fluoride may be provided as a salt. Apreferable form of fluoride comprises sodium fluoride.

EXAMPLE I

[0109] An anterior tooth is prepared by retracting the individual's lipto expose the entire tooth, up to and including the upper gum line. Thetooth was a front upper tooth. A quantity of 1 g. of lac resin (obtainedcommercially from A. F. Suter & Co. Ltd. as “Dewaxed Orange FlakeShellac” as discussed above), a dry light brown flake material wasdissolved in 10 ml of grain alcohol (99% ethanol). A treatment agent isadded to the compound. Fluoride is added in an amount to give about a0.2% concentration by weight. A suitable amount of salt, such as sodiumfluoride is added. A coloring agent was then added to tint the lacmixture to the desired shade. In this example, titanium dioxide powder(obtained commercially from Gamblin Dry Pigments, P.O. Box 625,Portland, Oreg. 97207) was admixed with the lac solution. The amount oftitanium dioxide powder brought the color of the amber solution to atooth colored shade, and the addition was an amount sufficient to arriveat the desired shade.

[0110] The covering compound with the fluoride was then applied onto thesurface of the tooth. The covering compound dried within two minutes ofits application by exposure to the air, the alcohol evaporating from thesolution leaving a lac coating on the tooth. The result was anevenly-coated tooth, which presented an evenly-colored appearance. Anydiscoloration or uneven shading which was previously present on thetooth was no longer visible.

[0111] The tooth was used normally, for eating, drinking, and wasbrushed regularly for a four-day period, after which the coating on thetooth was easily removed by the application of a high pressure stream ofwater (supplied by the use of a WATER PIK, an instrument which applies apressurized stream of water onto the tooth, and which is commerciallyavailable to consumers). The coating was abraded and removed from thetooth with a WATER PIK®.

EXAMPLE 2

[0112] The above conditions were repeated, as reported for Example 1,above, for an upper front tooth. However, the tooth was first preparedby exposing the tooth to citric acid (applied in the form of lemonjuice). The lemon juice was permitted to remain on the tooth for oneminute, after which time, it was washed off of the tooth with a waterrinse. The lac based covering compound with the treatment agent was thenprepared and applied to the washed tooth, which was still wet, inaccordance with the same procedure as in Example 1, above. This coatingperformed, and could be removed, in the same manner as the coating inExample 1, above.

EXAMPLE 3

[0113] An upper front tooth is prepared by retracting the individual'slip to expose the entire tooth, up to and including the upper gum line.The tooth is a front upper tooth. A quantity of about 0.10 mls of a lacresin solution (containing bleached food grade (USP) dewaxed lac resinsolubilized in specially denatured alcohol formula 45/200 proof (SDA45/200), obtained commercially from Mantrose-Haeuser Company, 1175 PostRoad East, Westport, Conn. 06880, USA) is taken on a sable brush. Thesolution is a clear color. Fluoride is added to yield a 0.2%concentration in the solution.

[0114] A coloring agent is then added to tint the lac treatment solutionto a desired shade. In this example, titanium dioxide powder (obtainedcommercially from Gamblin Dry Pigments, P.O. Box 625, Portland, Oreg.92707) is admixed with the sample of lac solution taken on the brush.The sable brush deposits the lac solution sample onto a clean dish. Anamount of pigment; equal to the size of a pinhead is added to the dishcontaining the lac solution sample, was admixed using the brush, until auniformly pigmented covering compound results (i.e. wherein the pigmentwas uniformly distributed throughout the compound). The amount oftitanium dioxide powder brings the color of the clear solution to atooth colored shade, and the addition is an amount sufficient to arriveat the desired shade. The fluoride containing covering compound isbrushed onto the tooth surface. The fluoride containing coveringcompound dried within minutes of its application. The tooth is usednormally, for eating and drinking, and is brushed regularly during atwenty-four hour period, after which the coating on the tooth is removedby the application of a high pressure stream of water (supplied by theuse of an instrument which applies a pressurized stream of water ontothe tooth, and which is commercially available to consumers, such as,for example, a WATER PIK®). The coating is abraded and removed from thetooth with the WATER PIK®.

EXAMPLE 4

[0115] The above conditions were repeated, as reported for Example 3,above, for a front upper tooth. However, the tooth is first prepared byexposing the tooth to citric acid (applied in the form of lemon juice).The lemon juice is permitted to remain on the tooth for one minute,after which time, it is washed off of the tooth with a water rinse. Thelac based covering compound is then prepared and applied to the washedtooth, which is still wet, in accordance with the same procedure as inExample 3, above. This coating performed, and is removable, in the samemanner as the coating in Example 3, above.

EXAMPLE 5

[0116] The above conditions are repeated, as set forth in Example 3,above, for an upper front tooth. The covering compound containing atreatment agent is prepared by taking a quantity of about 0.10 mls. of alac resin solution containing bleached food grade (USP) dewaxed lacresin solubilized in specially denatured alcohol formula 45/200 proof(SDA) 45/200, (obtained commercially from Mantrose-Haeuser Company, 1175Post Road East, Westport, Conn. 06880, USA) which is taken on a brushand mixed with a quantity of pigment in a dish. A fluoride containingcompound is added to arrive at a 0.2% fluoride concentration by weightof the covering compound. The preparation of the covering compound is inaccordance with the procedure identified above in Example 3, however,instead of titanium dioxide powder, a red pigment (red #22, soldcommercially and obtained from Warner Jenkinson Co. Inc., 107 WadeAvenue, South Plainfield, N.J. 07080 as K-7008) is used. The compound ismixed and a red color resulted. The red covering compound with thetreatment agent is applied to a tooth in the manner described inconnection with Example 3. The red color when applied on the toothindicates where the tooth is being treated. The tooth, having the redcolor from the compound applied to it, is used normally, for eating anddrinking and is brushed regularly for a twenty-four hour period, afterwhich the coating on the tooth is removed by the application of a highpressure stream of water (supplied by the use of an instrument whichapplies a pressurized stream of water onto the tooth and which iscommercially available to consumers, such as, for example, a WATERPIK®). However, the tooth is first prepared by exposing the tooth tocitric acid (applied in the form of lemon juice). The lemon juice ispermitted to remain on the tooth for one minute, after which time, it iswashed off of the tooth with a water rinse. The lac based coveringcompound is then prepared and applied to the washed tooth, which isstill wet, in accordance with the same procedure as in Example 3, above.This coating performed, and could be removed, in the same manner as thecoating in Example 3, above.

[0117] This example is also repeated using, in place of the red pigment,yellow #6 powder (FD&C 08006), and again using D&C yellow #10 (K-7059)(Warner-Jenkinson). However instead of a red color on the tooth, ayellow or orange color is obtained.

EXAMPLE 6

[0118] The covering compound is initially prepared, in accordance withExample 1, or by starting with the lac solution of Example 3. Thecovering compound is then further prepared by admixing with it acolorizing pigment. The colorizing pigment can be selected from coloradditives, including titanium dioxide and other pigments, vegetable dyesand the like. In this manner a variety of tooth-colored shades arepossible, and can be matched to existing or surrounding teeth shades, byapproximation with the addition of a pigment.

[0119] In this example, it is proposed that the covering compound isprovided in a tooth colored shade to the user. The provided coveringcompound is then admixed with a selected pigment to provide a colorizedcompound. The colorized compound is applied to a tooth surface in themanner recited above in Examples 1 or 3, by painting it on the toothsurface. The compound is then permitted to dry by exposure to air, andselectively removed at the wearer's discretion.

EXAMPLE 7

[0120] The lac based covering compound is initially prepared inaccordance with Examples 1 or 3. The covering compound is then furtherprepared by mixing a colorizing pigment. The colorizing pigment isselected from the pigments of the palette means. The palette meansincludes pigments comprising color additives, such as for example,titanium dioxide and other pigments, including vegetable dyes or foodgrade dyes. A containing means is used having pigment holding means forholding an array of pigments for selection by the user. The containingmeans also can have a mixing area wherein the selected pigments can bemixed with the lac based solution to arrive at the covering compound.The lac based covering compound is prepared by selecting from thepalette means one or more pigment compound selections and mixing theselected pigment compound therewith with a solution containing lac resinand solvent.

[0121] The lac based covering compound can be provided in a toothcolored shade which can be further customized by the user with aselection from the pigment compounds. The tooth colored shade canpreferably be provided by the addition of titanium dioxide or othersuitable pigment, or by varying the types of lac used, or both.

[0122] The colorized covering compound is applied to a tooth surface inthe manner recited above in Examples 1 or 3. The covering compound isthen permitted to dry by exposure to air, and selectively removed at thewearer's discretion.

EXAMPLE 8

[0123] The compounds and methods described in Examples 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7,above, but further including an etching step. A weak acid is provided toetch very small microscopic pits onto the tooth surface. A citric acidsolution is used. The citric acid solution preferably has the sameconcentration as lemon juice and, further, can be used in the form oflemon juice. The lemon juice is applied onto the tooth surface which isto receive the covering compound and allowed to remain on the tooth fromabout a few seconds to a few minutes. The lemon juice is then washedfrom the tooth with a water rinse. The tooth, still wet, is now ready toreceive the covering compound. The covering compound is then applied bybrushing onto the tooth surface to provide an evenly dispersed coatingon the tooth. The compound is then permitted to dry by exposure to air,and selectively removed at the wearer's discretion.

EXAMPLE 9

[0124] The method is carried out as in Example 8, wherein the toothpreparing step includes etching the tooth with a polyacrylic acidsolution (in place of the citric acid solution) by contacting the toothwith the polyacrylic acid solution and allowing the acid solution toremain on the tooth for a couple of minutes. The polyacrylic acidsolution is then rinsed off of the tooth by applying a water rinse.Thereafter, the covering compound is applied.

EXAMPLE 10

[0125] The method is carried out as in any of Examples 1-9 above,wherein the covering compound is provided having a powdered componentand a liquid component. The powdered component can contain the lac baseand a pigment, which can be a tooth colored pigment or a non-toothcolored pigment. The powdered component can be provided in a pluralityof pigmented shades for selection by the user. The powdered component isselected and mixed with a liquid component, which, for example, cancontain ethanol, to form the lac based covering compound for applicationto an etched or non-etched tooth.

EXAMPLE 11

[0126] The method is carried out as in any of Examples 1 through 10above, wherein a brightening agent is admixed with the coveringcompound, (or as in Example 10, with the powdered components).Preferably, the brightening agent can comprise pulverizedfluoroaluminosilicate glass particles. The covering compound is appliedand removed in the same manner. Furthermore, it is proposed that aBis-GMA sealant or a glass ionomeric cement can be admixed with the lacbased covering compound to provide a brightener. Thefluoroaluminosilicate may be further added as well to the lac Bis-GMAand/or the lac glass ionomeric cement compound.

EXAMPLE 12

[0127] The method is carried out with the above examples except fluorideis added in an amount up to about 5% by weight of the composition.

[0128] In the case of a colored compound or non-tooth colored compound,preferably, there is some contrast between the tooth color and thecomposition being applied. The contrast facilitates identification ofareas to which treatment has been applied, as well as those areas inneed of treatment.

EXAMPLES 13-23

[0129] The above examples 1-11 are repeated, but without the addition offluoride to the composition. The covering compound is applied to thetooth surface as described above.

EXAMPLES 24-46

[0130] The above examples 1-23 are repeated; however, prior toapplication of the compound, the tooth is masked with stenciling meanswhich comprises a masking material. Where an etching step is included,the tooth may be etched prior to or after the application of a maskingmaterial to the tooth. A masking material having a design or indicia cutinto the masking material forming an opening in the material is appliedover the tooth surface. The covering compound is applied onto theopening of the masking material, and allowed to dry fully or untiltacky. The masking material is them removed from the tooth, leavingbehind the indicia or design comprising the covering compound. Excesscovering compound which was applied on the masking material is removedwith the masking material.

EXAMPLE 47

[0131] Ingredient Supplier % 4# Refined PG 45/200 (Shellac inMantrose-Hauser 84.56 Alcohol) Ethylcellulose EC N22 Pharm Hercules(Aqualon) 4.45 Lecithin B-60 (Lecithin) W.A. Cleary 0.09 Timiron MP-1005Super Silk (Mica) Rona/EM Industries 9.17 C33-8073 Yellow Iron Oxide SunChemical 0.07 C47-057 Titanium Dioxide Sun Chemical 0.16 Banana Conc.#902-379 Flavormatics 1.50 100.00

[0132] A coating composition was prepared by adding the above listedcomponents, one at a time, starting with the lac resin in alcohol, andcontinuing, where each of the remaining components were added using arotor/stator to mix the components, so as to disperse the ethylcelluloseand pigments. Minimal rpm's were used to mix the mica particles tominimize the particle size reduction. A flavorant/odorant was usedprovided in the form of banana concentrate (Flavormatics).

[0133] The result was applied to the surface of a tooth, in vivo, usinga brush. The composition was allow to remain on the tooth, and the toothwas used normally (for eating food and drinking liquids) while thecoating was on the tooth. The coating was permitted to remain on thetooth for several hours. The coating gave the tooth a pinkish color.

[0134] The following are further examples of preferred compositionsaccording to the present invention.

EXAMPLE 48

[0135] Ingredient Supplier % 4# Refined PG 45/200 (Shellac in Alcohol)Mantrose-Hauser 72.80 Lecithin B-60 (Lecithin) W.A. Cleary 0.70Lumilux ® Effekt Grun N-CO AlliedSignal 25.00 902-379 Banana FlavorFlavormatics 1.50 100.00

[0136] A coating composition was prepared by adding the above listedcomponents, one at a time, starting with the lac resin in alcohol, andcontinuing where each of the remaining components were added using arotor/stator to mix the components, so as to disperse the ethylcelluloseand pigments. A luminescent pigment compound, Lumilux® Effekt Grun N—CO,was added to the composition. A flavorant/odorant was used, provided inthe form of banana concentrate (Flavormatics).

[0137] The result was applied to the surface of a tooth, in vivo, usinga brush. The composition was allowed to remain on the tooth, and thetooth was used normally (for eating a drinking purposes) while thecoating was on the tooth. The coating was permitted to remain on thetooth for several hours. The coating gave the tooth aluminescent/fluorescent glow.

EXAMPLE 49

[0138] Ingredient Supplier Amount % Flemenco Satin Gold EngelHard 5.9oz. 4.4 Flemenco Gold EngelHard 1.34 oz. 1 Colorona Black Star GoldRona/EM Industries 1.34 oz. 1 Timiron MP 20 Rona/EM Industries 4.02 oz.3 4# Refined PG 45/200 Montrose/Hauser 113.34 oz. 84.6 (Shellac inAlcohol) Ethylcellulose Hercules (Aqualon) 5.96 oz. 4.4 Lecithin B-60 W.A. Cleary .12 oz. .1 902-379 Banana Flavor Flavormatic 2.01 oz. 1.5100.00

[0139] A coating composition was prepared by adding the above listedcomponents, starting with the shellac (lac resin in ethyl alcoholsolvent), to which the remaining ingredients were added. Colorants orpigments were added to produce a gold color. The pigments includedFlemenco Satin Gold and Flemenco Gold (both from Engelhard) as well asColorona Black Star Gold and Timiron MP 20 (both from Rona/EMIndustries). Ethylcellulose and lecithin were added. A flavorant/odorantwas used provided in the form of banana concentrate (Flavormatics).

[0140] The resultant composition was applied to the surface of a tooth,in vivo, using a brush. The composition was allow to remain on thetooth, and the tooth was used normally (for eating food and drinkingliquids) while the coating was on the tooth. The coating was permittedto remain on the tooth for several hours. The coating gave the tooth agold color.

EXAMPLE 50

[0141] Ingredient Supplier Amount % Timiron Super Fine Silver Rona/EMIndustries 8.7 oz. 6.4 (Mica) Colorona Patina Silver Rona/EM Industries4.08 oz. 3.0 (Mica) 4# Refined PG 45/200 Mantrose/Hauser 113.34 oz. 84.6(Shellac in Alcohol) Ethylcellulose Hercules, Aqualon 5.96 oz. 4.4Lecithin B-60 W. A. Cleary .12 oz. .1 902-379 Banana Flavor Flavormatic2.01 oz. 1.5 100.00

[0142] A coating composition was prepared in the same manner as thecomposition in Example 49, above, but with the above ingredients. Theresult was applied to the surface of a tooth, in vivo, using a brush.The composition was allow to remain on the tooth, and the tooth was usednormally (for eating food and drinking liquids) while the coating was onthe tooth. The coating was permitted to remain on the tooth for severalhours. The coating gave the tooth a silver color.

EXAMPLE 51

[0143] Ingredient Supplier % 4# Refined PG 45/200 Mantrose-Hauser 83.32Ethylcellulose EC N22 Pharm. Hercules, Aqualon 4.38 Lecithin B-60 W. A.Cleary 0.80 C39-4433 FD&C Blue 1 Al Lake Sun Chemical 3.67 C-37-6340FD&C Red 40 Al Lake Sun Chemical 0.67 C69-4424 FD&C Yellow 5 Al Lake SunChemical 0.67 Banana Conc. #902-379 Flavormatics 1.50 100.00

[0144] A coating composition was prepared in the same manner as thecomposition in Example 49, above, but with the above ingredients. Theresult was applied to the surface of a tooth, in vivo, using a brush.The composition was allow to remain on the tooth, and the tooth was usednormally (for eating food and drinking liquids) while the coating was onthe tooth. The coating was permitted to remain on the tooth for severalhours. The coating gave the tooth a black color.

EXAMPLE 52

[0145] Off White Ingredient Supplier % Shellac 4 lb/45 AlcoholMantrose-Hauser 76.1 Titanium Dioxide, Food Grade 22.9 Anatase C69-4424FD&C Yellow 5 Al Lake Sun Chemical 0.67 Soya Lecithin, Food Grade W.A.Cleary 0.8 100.00

EXAMPLE 53

[0146] Light Orange Ingredient Supplier % Shellac 4 lb/45 AlcoholMantrose-Hauser 98.20 FD&C Yellow No. 6 Al. Lake Sun Chemical .98 SoyaLecithin, Food Grade W.A. Cleary 0.82 100.00

EXAMPLE 54

[0147] Robin's Egg Blue Ingredient Supplier % Shellac 4 lb/45 AlcoholMantrose-Hauser 98.20 FD&C Blue No. 1 Al. Lake Sun Chemical .98 SoyaLecithin, Food Grade W.A. Cleary 0.82 100.00

EXAMPLE 55

[0148] Mixing Yellow Base Ingredient Supplier % Shellac 4 lb/45 AlcoholMantrose-Hauser 92.0 FD&C Yellow No. 5 Al. Lake Sun Chemical 7.0 SoyaLecithin, Food Grade W.A. Cleary 1 100.00

EXAMPLE 56

[0149] Opaque White Mixing Base Ingredient Supplier % Shellac 4 lb/45Alcohol Mantrose-Hauser 84 Titanium Dioxide, food Grade 15 Anatase SoyaLecithin, Food Grade W.A. Cleary 1 100.00

[0150] Coating compositions were prepared in each Example 52-56 bymixing the above listed components together.

[0151] The result was applied to the surface of a tooth, in vivo, usinga brush. The composition was allow to remain on the tooth, and the toothwas used normally (for eating food and drinking liquids) while thecoating was on the tooth. The coating was permitted to remain on thetooth for several hours. The coating gave the tooth the colors as setforth with each example.

EXAMPLES 57-66

[0152] The above examples 47-56 are repeated, but with the addition offluoride to the composition. Fluoride is added in an amount of fromabout 0.1% to 5%, and about a 0.2% concentration by weight, through theaddition of a suitable amount of salt, such as sodium fluoride, which isadded to the composition. The covering compound is applied to the toothsurface as described above.

EXAMPLES 67-84

[0153] The above examples 47-66 are repeated; however, prior toapplication of the compound, the tooth is masked with stenciling meanswhich comprises a masking material. Where an etching step is included,the tooth may be etched prior to or after the application of a maskingmaterial to the tooth. A masking material having a design or indicia cutinto the masking material forming an opening in the material is appliedover the tooth surface. The covering compound is applied onto theopening of the masking material, and allowed to dry fully or untiltacky. The masking material is them removed from the tooth, leavingbehind the indicia or design comprising the covering compound. Excesscovering compound which was applied on the masking material is removedwith the masking material.

[0154] In each of the above examples 1 through 84, it is noted that noeffort is made to dry the tooth, prior to applying the covering compoundthereon.

[0155] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications can be made to the present invention without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention, and it is intended that thepresent invention cover modifications and variations which are withinthe scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A composition for cosmetically altering theappearance of teeth to whiten or colorize the teeth by applying saidcomposition to a tooth surface, said composition comprising: a) a lacresin; b) a solvent; c) at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of (i) polysaccharides or (ii) phospholipids; and d) apigment.
 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the at least onecompound selected from the group consisting of (i) polysaccharides or(ii) phospholipids comprises a polysaccharide selected from the groupconsisting of cellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionate carboxylate,hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof.
 3. The composition of claim 1, whereinthe at least one compound selected from the group consisting of (i)polysaccharides or (ii) phospholipids comprises ethylcellulose.
 4. Thecomposition of claim 1, further including a luminescent compound.
 5. Thecomposition of claim 4, further comprising a polysaccharide selectedfrom the group consisting of cellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionate carboxylate,hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof.
 6. The composition of claim 5, furthercomprising a luminescent compound.
 7. The composition of claim 1,wherein the at least one compound selected from the group consisting of(i) polysaccharides or (ii) phospholipids comprises a phospholipidcompound.
 8. The composition of claim 7, wherein the phospholipidcompound is selected from the group consisting of lecithin andderivatives thereof.
 9. The composition of claim 2, further comprising aphospholipid compound.
 10. The composition of claim 9, wherein thephospholipid compound is selected from the group consisting of lecithinand derivatives thereof.
 11. The composition of claim 1, wherein thephospholipid is selected from the group consisting of lecithin andderivatives thereof, and wherein the polysaccharide is selected from thegroup consisting of cellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof.
 12. The composition of claim 10, furtherincluding a luminescent compound.
 13. The composition of claim 1,wherein the at least one compound selected from the group consisting of(i) polysachharide or (ii) phospholipids provided in a minor amountrelative to the amount of the combined amounts of the lac resin andsolvent.
 14. The composition of claim 1, wherein when the at least onecompound selected from the group consisting of (i) polysaccharides or(ii) phospholipids is a polysaccharide, the polysaccharide is present ina range of up to about 4.75%, and wherein when the at least one compoundselected from the group consisting of (i) polysaccharides or (ii)phospholipids is a phospholipids, the phospholipid is present in a rangeof up to about 1.5%.
 15. The composition of claim 3, wherein theethylcellulose is present in an amount of from about 4.25% to 4.5%. 16.The composition of claim 8, wherein the lecithin and derivatives thereofare present in an amount of from about 0.09% to 1.0%.
 17. Thecomposition of claim 1, further comprising a treatment agent.
 18. Thecomposition of claim 17, wherein the treatment agent comprises afluoride containing compound.
 19. A method for altering the appearanceof teeth comprising the steps of: a) preparing the tooth by exposing thetooth so that the tooth to be treated is exposed; b) preparing a lacbased covering compound containing a lac resin, a solvent, a pigment andat least one compound selected from the group consisting of (i)polysaccharides or (ii) phospholipids; c) applying the covering compoundprepared in step (b) to the tooth surface to be coated; and d) allowingthe covering compound applied to the tooth to dry by exposing the toothto air.
 20. A method of making a design or other indicia on a toothcomprising the steps of: a) providing a masking material having a designor indicia formed by an aperture cut into said masking material; b)providing adhesion means for temporarily adhering the masking materialonto a tooth surface, c) attaching the masking material to a toothsurface; d) providing a covering compound for application to a toothsurface, wherein the covering compound comprises: i) a lac resin; ii) asolvent; iii) at least one compound selected from the group consistingof (i) polysaccharides or (ii) phospholipids; and iv) a pigment; e)applying the covering compound over the masking material to cover thetooth surface which is accessible through the apertured design orindicia of the masking material; f) allowing the covering compound todry; and g) removing the masking material from the tooth surface.